Health Services
Self Care

Crabs (Pubic Lice)

Description
Crabs is the term commonly used to mean infestation of the pubic area by pubic lice. The lice which look like crabs under a microscope, are about the size of a pinhead and can be seen by the naked eye. The lice live on blood from tiny blood vessels near the surface of the skin and are easily transmitted from one person to another by close physical contact. In some cases, people become infected after sleeping in a bed or sleeping bag used by a person who has pubic lice, or by wearing infested clothing.

Symptoms
Most people with pubic lice experience intolerable itching, although some people have no symptoms at all. Diagnosis is made by finding lice or their small white eggs attached to the pubic hairs or skin.

Treatment
Pubic lice and their eggs can be easily eradicated by local application of the non-prescription medication RID (shampoo or lotion). All package directions should be followed carefully to ensure total decontamination. Sheets, blankets, towels, clothing, sleeping bags, and other personal articles should be thoroughly washed or dry cleaned. Rugs, furniture, mattresses and bathrooms should be carefully cleaned and disinfected with a commercial preparation such as RID.

Prevention
Avoid bodily contact with infected persons, and with objects or clothing infected by pubic crabs.

More Information/Questions
If your symptoms persist or worsen despite good self-care, medical treatment is available at the Health Center for Messiah students. Call 691-6035 for more information.